I am asking for the privilege of becoming your next county mayor, and I want you to know the governing principles I will use as the framework for policy decisions:

1. Honesty, integrity, accountability and fiscal responsibility are the benchmarks of good government.

2. Every dollar the county spends is your money not the government's.

3. Low taxes and improving government efficiency are not nice ideas but key parts of responsible government.

4. The education of our children is our most important investment. Parents are our children's most valuable and important advocates, and they expect and deserve quality schools, well-paid effective teachers and the best technology we can provide.

5. Working with the community to help build a strong and growing economy here in Knox County is essential, but the foundation of this economy is, and should always be, made up by the hardworking people of the county and not the government.

6. Safe neighborhoods are essential to every community and without safe streets our schools, businesses and homes cannot thrive.

7. Local government works for every citizen regardless of where they live, how old they are, or how much money they make.